Abstract

Monte Carlo simulations using a dielectrophoresis model were performed to investigate the microstructural evolution and the conductance change of an electrolytefilm clapped by a Ag active electrode, at which a positive bias was applied, and a Pt inert electrode. It has been revealed that driven by the electrical field Ag ions were injected into the electrolyte from the Agelectrode to form conductive particles, thereafter, the particles align themselves in nanowires connecting Agelectrode and Pt electrode and leading to an electrical percolation. It is responsible for the resistive switching of the system. The transmission electron microscopic observations and resistive measurement results are in good agreement with the results of simulations.

Received 12 July 2009Accepted 25 November 2009Published online 15 December 2009

Acknowledgments:

Helpful discussions with Dr. Dong Shuai are appreciated. This work was financially supported by the 863 project of China (Grant No. 2008AA031401) and the State Key Program for Basic Research of China (Grant Nos. 2007CB935401, 2006CB921803, and 2010CB630704).